For some, joining the Army National Guard in any capacity is good enough. For others, reaching the top is extremely important. Are you aware of the many different ways to become an officer in the National Guard?
The success of the Guard depends largely on the effectiveness of its officers. By holding a top position, each and every officer is expected to help the Guard reach all of its goals.
Officer Categories
When you decide to become an officer in the National Guard, it is important to note that there are three categories to consider.
Once you’ve decided to join the Guard, passed the eligibility requirements and taken the oath, the next step on your journey from civilian to Soldier is Basic Combat Training (BCT). While physical fitness training is a big part of it, BCT is not all about push-ups and sit-ups. You’ll also learn the benefits of discipline in all you do. The United States National Guard is part of the reserve components of the United States Army and the United States Air Force. UNIQUE EXPERIENCES, UNITED PURPOSE In the Air National Guard, we bring people from diverse backgrounds together to defend freedom and protect communities – locally and globally.
1. Basic branch officers. These officers are part of the Combat Arms branch, Combat Service Support branch, or Combat Support branch.
2. Specialty officers. These officers have specialized professional skills. Some of the most popular include: Chaplains, Medical Professional, and Judge Advocate General.
3. Warrant officers. These officers are commissioned and known to be a subject matter expert in a particular field.
How to Become an Officer in the National Guard
Many people are under the impression that there is only one way to become an officer in the National Guard. However, this is not the case. You can move onto this part of your career through one of the following programs:
1. Reserve Officers? Training Corps (ROTC). With this program, you have the ability to earn your commission as an officer while you also earn your college degree. Once you graduate, you will enter the Army as a second lieutenant.
2. Officer Candidate School. This leadership training course is most often attended by those who are currently serving as an enlisted soldier as well as recruits with the right qualifications.
3. Direct Commission. Those who are legal professionals, chaplains, or medical professionals could be nominated by a commander to become a specialty officer.
4. West Point. There are two programs for qualified, currently enlisted soldiers who are interested in seeking admission to the United States Military Academy Preparatory School or the United States Military Academy.
National Guard Officer Requirements
Becoming an officer in the National Guard is not as simple as it sounds. In addition to going through the proper program (as noted above), there are basic requirements that you must meet. To go along with general eligibility requirements, you must have military experience and/or a college degree. If you don?t already have your degree, the National Guard offers many educational benefits. Here are additional requirements that must be met:
– United States citizen
– Medically and morally qualified
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– Must commission before your 42nd birthday
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– Must have a 110 GT line score on the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery
Why become an Officer in the National Guard?
Now that you know more about how to become an officer in the National Guard you must decide if this is truly what you want to do. While higher pay may be something you are interested in, the primary benefit of becoming an officer is the additional responsibilities.
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What are your thoughts on becoming an officer? If you are ready to make this happen, follow the above advice to get started.